Chamber Symphony

“My Chamber Symphony, composed in 2009, is in three movements, following a moderate-slow-fast format. In the longer first movement, the music ranges over a particularly wide spectrum of harmonic tendencies; part of the fun was to try to create seamless connections between disparate regions. Exploring the various color combinations of an ensemble with just about one of every instrument was another preoccupation. A third one was writing a movement that gradually “gathered steam” as it progressed, but in a way that the listener would find unobtrusive. The second movement is a simple song (for a reduced instrumentation), with the first violinist as soloist. In the third movement, a rambunctious finale has something of a “rondo” flavor to it, with a fanfare-like finish showcasing the three brass instruments. The work lasts about 22 minutes.” LK

First performance:
The Washington Square Ensemble, Louis Karchin, conductor
Merkin Concert Hall, New York City April 7, 2010